Master the Art of Communicating Science to the Public
Gain a comprehensive understanding of science communication theory and best practices in this immersive 9-12 month experience. Designed for students who want to bridge the gap between scientific research and public understanding, this program will teach you how to effectively communicate complex scientific information to non-specialist audiences.
Program Structure: Theory and Practical Application
The program is structured to offer a balanced approach combining theory and hands-on practice:
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Term 1: Foundational Theory
Build a strong understanding of the core principles of science communication, including design theory, rhetorical theory, and research methods. -
Term 2: Practical Skill Development
Focus on applying your knowledge to real-world challenges. Work on projects related to exhibit development, media engagement, and science communication strategies.
Key Areas of Study
Throughout the program, you will explore critical issues and develop the skills necessary for effective science communication, including:
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Rhetorical and design theory for communicating complex ideas
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Social media and traditional media strategies for engaging audiences
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Exhibit and outreach development for scientific topics
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Research methods for evaluating communication effectiveness
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Science in society, including ethical and public policy considerations
Collaborate with Leading Researchers
Students will have the opportunity to work alongside leading researchers at the Vale Living With Lakes Centre. This unique experience provides direct exposure to cutting-edge scientific research, while also exploring public outreach and communication challenges in the scientific community.
Career Opportunities for Science Communication Graduates
Graduates of the Science Communication program are well-prepared for careers in various sectors, including:
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Science Communicator for research institutions or government organizations
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Public Relations Specialist in scientific fields
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Media Relations Specialist for scientific institutions
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Exhibit Developer for science museums or public outreach programs
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Content Creator in social and traditional media for science-related topics
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Communications Manager in nonprofit or governmental organizations focused on science
With strong skills in communication, media strategy, and public engagement, graduates are prepared to work in education, media, government, and non-profit organizations.
- Academic Requirement: The applicant must have completed a four-year Honours degree with a minimum GPA of 65%.
- ELP Requirement: IELTS: Overall score of 6.5, with no individual band score below 6.0, PTE Academic: Minimum overall score of 60, Duolingo English Test: Minimum score of 110, TOEFL: Minimum score of 230 (computer-based) or 88 (internet-based)
Account Balance & Statements
Laurentian University does NOT mail paper bills. You’re responsible for all tuition and related fees for your registered courses. To see what you owe, log in to your Self-Service account and check your Account Summary.
Tuition & Incidental Fees
Your tuition is based on level (undergraduate or graduate), program, course load (full- or part-time), cohort year, and citizenship. Incidental fees (student association, athletic, wellness, etc.) are mandatory. International students without private health coverage must pay UHIP insurance (Sept 1–Aug 31). Canadian citizens aged 60 and over pay no tuition but still cover materials, administrative, and incidental fees.
Payment Deadlines & Charges
All fees are due by the published financial deadlines, not academic deadlines. To avoid late fees and interest (applied on the 1st of each month), allow extra time for your payment to arrive. If you register after the deadline, payment is due immediately.
Withdrawal & Refunds
Simply stopping classes or telling an instructor does not count as withdrawal. To officially withdraw and qualify for a refund, drop your course(s) via Self-Service before the financial refund deadline. Be aware: the last day to withdraw without academic penalty differs from the refund deadline—late withdrawals may incur partial or no refunds.
Requesting Your Refund
If you have a credit balance after dropping courses in time, email fees@laurentian.ca to request a refund. Enter your bank details in WebAdvisor under Financial Information for direct deposit. If you can’t add banking info, the University will mail you a paper cheque at session’s end.
Holds & Collections
Any unpaid balance blocks registration for future terms and delays release of diplomas, transcripts, or letters. Accounts still unpaid at session’s end are forwarded to the University’s internal collections department.
Initiating Course Changes
You are responsible for making any course changes yourself. To do so, log in to your Self-Service account and update your schedule.
When Fees Increase
If your new course choices cost more, you must pay the extra amount right away.
When Fees Decrease
If your changes lower your fees, we’ll first apply the credit to any unpaid charges. If there’s money left over, you can request a refund of the remaining balance.
Please refer to the Due Dates & Payment Otions, so that you may not miss any important dates. (Click here)
- Application Fee: $144
- LOA Deposit: $2,000
- Annual Tuition Fee: $10,939.20
- Total Tuition Fee: $21,878.45
- Course Duration: 2 years
- Credentials: Masters
- Intake: September
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Copy of passport
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All post secondary academic transcripts & certificates
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Curriculum Vitae/Resume (Updated/Latest)
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Personal statement of interest: Brief explanation (1-2 pages in length) of why you are interested in our program, how you think our program can help you accomplish your personal goals, what you believe you can bring to the program, and what you hope to get out of the experience. This document is an opportunity to express your passion for furthering your professional development in the field of science communication.
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Evidence of science background: Brief description (about half of a page) of academic pursuits, work experience, or volunteer efforts in science-related fields. Applicants can provide a lengthier document if they need to demonstrate that they have significant science experience in addition to their core degree.
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Official transcripts or WES course-by-course evaluation
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IELTS/PTE/TOEFL/Duolingo - if applicable
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Student Email ID:
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Student Contact No:
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Student Address:
NOTE: The student will be required to submit all official or notarized transcripts from previous studies by mail, email, or in person upon arrival, before beginning their studies. It is further understood that any mailed documents will not be returned.
IF ONSHORE STUDENT
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Stamped copy of visa
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LOI
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Study permit
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Canadian Address:
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Canadian Contact No: